1
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Hong F, Su X, Fang Y, He X, Shan B. Manipulating Photoconduction in Supramolecular Networks for Solar-Driven Nitrate Conversion to Ammonia and Oxygen. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:25200-25210. [PMID: 39222384 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c09052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
For photoelectrodes to be used in practical catalytic applications, challenges exist in achieving the efficient production and transport of photogenerated charge-separated states. Analogous concepts in traditional inorganic photoelectrodes can be applied to their organic-polymer counterparts with improved charge-separation efficiencies. In this work, we develop photoconductive organic networks to form a high-performance photoelectrode for NO3- reduction to NH3. In the integrated network, interfaces between the organic electron-donating photoconductor and electron-accepting catalyst can generate charge carriers efficiently upon illumination, leading to enhanced charge separation for photoelectrocatalysis. The photoelectrode network is capable of converting NO3- to NH3 at an external quantum efficiency of 13%. By coupling with a BiVO4 photoanode in tandem, the system reduces NO3- to NH3 and oxidizes H2O to O2 simultaneously at Faradaic efficiencies of 95-98% with sustained photocurrents and production yields. Investigation of the photoconductive network by steady-state/time-resolved spectroscopies reveals the efficient generation and transport of free charge carriers in the photoelectrode, providing a basis for high photoelectrocatalytic performances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiyang Hong
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xinhao Su
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yanjie Fang
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xinjia He
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Bing Shan
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Excited-State Materials of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
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2
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Zhou J, Zhao J, Song D, Liu J, Xu W, Li J, Wang N. Cascade Electrocatalytic Reduction of Nitrate to Ammonia Using a Heterobimetallic Covalent Organic Framework Composed of Cu-Porphyrin and Co-Bipyridine. Inorg Chem 2024; 63:15177-15185. [PMID: 39088784 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.4c02553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
The electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate (NO3-) to ammonia (NH3) not only offers an effective solution to environmental problems caused by the accumulation of NO3- but also provides a sustainable alternative to the Haber-Bosch process. However, the conversion of NO3- to NH3 is a complicated process involving multiple steps, leading to a low Faradaic efficiency (FE) for NH3 production. The structural designability of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) renders feasible and precise modulation at the molecular level, facilitating the incorporation of multiple well-defined catalytic sites with different reactivities into a cohesive entity. This promotes the efficiency of the overall reaction through the coupling of multistep reactions. Herein, heterobimetallic CuP-CoBpy was prepared by postmodification, involving the anchoring of cobalt ions to the CuP-Bpy structure. As a result of the cascade effect of the bimetallic sites, CuP-CoBpy achieved an outstanding NH3 yield of 13.9 mg h-1 mgcat.-1 with a high FE of 96.7% at -0.70 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode and exhibited excellent stability during catalysis. A series of experimental and theoretical studies revealed that the CuP unit facilitates the conversion of NO3- to NO2-, while the CoBpy moiety significantly prompts the reduction of NO2- to NH3. This study demonstrates that tailoring the structural units for the construction of COFs based on each step in the multistep reaction can enhance both the catalytic activity and product selectivity of the overall process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Jiani Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Dengmeng Song
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xi'an Shiyou University, Xi'an 710065, China
| | - Jiquan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Wenhua Xu
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Jun Li
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
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3
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Li X, Yu Z, Zhang C, Li B, Wu X, Liu Y, Zhu Z. Advancing Energy Sustainability Through Solar-to-Fuel Technologies: From Materials to Devices and Systems. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2400683. [PMID: 39039980 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202400683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
To achieve carbon neutrality and sustainable development, innovative solar-to-fuel systems have been designed through the integration of solar energy harvesting and electrochemical devices. Over the last decade, there have been notable advancements in enhancing the efficiency and durability of these solar-to-fuel systems. Despite the advancements, there remains significant potential for further improvements in the performance of systems. Enhancements can be achieved by optimizing electrochemical catalysts, advancing the manufacturing technologies of photovoltaics and electrochemical cells, and refining the overall design of these systems. In the realm of catalyst optimization, the effectiveness of materials can be significantly improved through active site engineering and strategic use of functional groups. Similarly, the performance of electrochemical devices can be enhanced by incorporating specific additives into electrolytes and optimizing gas diffusion electrodes. Improvements in solar harvesting devices are achievable through efficient passivant and self-assembled monolayers, which enhance the overall quality and efficiency of these systems. Additionally, optimizing the energy conversion efficiency involves the strategic use of DC converters, photoelectrodes, and redox media. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the advancements in solar-powered electrochemical energy conversion systems, laying a solid foundation for future research and development in the field of energy sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xintong Li
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Zexin Yu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Chunlei Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Xin Wu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Yizhe Liu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Zonglong Zhu
- Shenzhen Research Institute, City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518057, China
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4
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Li M, Wen Y, Fang Y, Shan B. Molecular Wiring of Electrocatalytic Nitrate reduction to Ammonia and Water Oxidation by Iron-Coordinated Macroporous Conductive Networks. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202405746. [PMID: 38666518 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202405746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Developing stable electrocatalysts with accessible isolated sites is desirable but highly challenging due to metal agglomeration and low surface stability of host materials. Here we report a general approach for synthesis of single-site Fe electrocatalysts by integrating a solvated Fe complex in conductive macroporous organic networks through redox-active coordination linkages. Electrochemical activation of the electrode exposes high-density coordinately unsaturated Fe sites for efficient adsorption and conversion of reaction substrates such as NO3 - and H2O. Using the electrode with isolated active Fe sites, electrocatalytic NO3 - reduction and H2O oxidation can be coupled in a single cell to produce NH3 and O2 at Faradaic efficiencies of 97 % and 100 %, respectively. The electrode exhibits excellent robustness in electrocatalysis for 200 hours with small decrease in catalytic efficiencies. Both the maximized Fe-site efficiency and the microscopic localization effect of the conductive organic matrix contribute to the high catalytic performances, which provides new understandings in tuning the efficiencies of metal catalysts for high-performance electrocatalytic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjie Li
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yingke Wen
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yanjie Fang
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Bing Shan
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Excited-State Materials of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310058, China
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5
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Zhang W, Zhou Y, Zhu Y, Guo Y, Zhang B, Zhang LH, Li F, Yu F. Boosting Electrochemical Nitrate Reduction at Low Concentrations Through Simultaneous Electronic States Regulation and Proton Provision. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2404792. [PMID: 38923291 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202404792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Electrochemically converting nitrate (NO3 -) into ammonia (NH3) has emerged as an alternative strategy for NH3 production and effluent treatment. Nevertheless, the electroreduction of dilute NO3 - is still challenging due to the competitive adsorption between various aqueous species and NO3 -, and unfavorable water dissociation providing *H. Herein, a new tandem strategy is proposed to boost the electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) performance of Cu nanoparticles supported on single Fe atoms dispersed N-doped carbon (Cu@Fe1-NC) at dilute NO3 - concentrations (≤100 ppm NO3 --N). The optimized Cu@Fe1-NC presents a FENH3 of 97.7% at -0.4 V versus RHE, and a significant NH3 yield of 1953.9 mmol h-1 gCu -1 at 100 ppm NO3 --N, a record-high activity for dilute NO3RR. The metal/carbon heterojunctions in Cu@Fe1-NC enable a spontaneous electron transfer from Cu to carbon substrate, resulting in electron-deficient Cu. As a result, the electron-deficient Cu facilitates the adsorption of NO3 - compared with the pristine Cu. The adjacent atomic Fe sites efficiently promote water dissociation, providing abundant *H for the hydrogenation of *NOx e at Cu sites. The synergistic effects between Cu and single Fe atom sites simultaneously decrease the energy barrier for NO3 - adsorption and hydrogenation, thereby enhancing the overall activity of NO3 - reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlin Zhang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Energy Conservation in Chemical Process Integration and Resources Utilization, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300130, P. R. China
| | - Yuzhuo Zhou
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Energy Conservation in Chemical Process Integration and Resources Utilization, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300130, P. R. China
| | - Yong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, P. R. China
| | - Yabo Guo
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Energy Conservation in Chemical Process Integration and Resources Utilization, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300130, P. R. China
| | - Bo Zhang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Energy Conservation in Chemical Process Integration and Resources Utilization, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300130, P. R. China
| | - Lu-Hua Zhang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Energy Conservation in Chemical Process Integration and Resources Utilization, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300130, P. R. China
| | - Fei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, P. R. China
| | - Fengshou Yu
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Energy Conservation in Chemical Process Integration and Resources Utilization, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300130, P. R. China
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6
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Yi S, Yang S, Xie Z, Yun J, Pan X. Carbene-Mediated Polymer Modification Using Diazo Compounds under Photo or Thermal Activation Conditions. ACS Macro Lett 2024; 13:711-718. [PMID: 38767947 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.4c00222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Based on the characteristics of commodity polymers in large quantities and low costs, modification of existing commodity polymers emerges as the most effective approach for exploring novel materials. Nevertheless, conventional modification methods typically involve high-energy processes (e.g., high temperature, high-energy radiation), which may lead to irreversible detrimental effects on the polymers, contradicting the desired performance enhancement through modification. In this work, we propose a carbene-mediated postpolymerization modification (PPM) strategy utilizing diazo compounds. Under photochemical or thermal activation conditions, insertion of the C-H bond can be achieved without compromising the performance of polymers. These diazo compounds can be easily synthesized in just two steps and applied to all C-H-containing polymers. This practical and effective modification strategy offers new opportunities and possibilities for enhancing the value and expanding the applications of polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Shicheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Zhikang Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Jie Yun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xiangcheng Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
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7
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Wang H, Du G, Jia J, Huang J, Tu M, Zhang J, Peng Y, Li H, Xu C. Ru-Doped NiFe-MIL-53 with Facilitated Reconstruction and Active Hydrogen Supplement for Enhanced Nitrate Reduction. Inorg Chem 2024; 63:9212-9220. [PMID: 38718298 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.4c00766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The Electrochemical reduction of nitrate to ammonia (NH3) is a process of great significance to energy utilization and environmental protection. However, it suffers from sluggish multielectron/proton-involved steps involving coupling reactions between different reaction intermediates and active hydrogen species (Hads) produced by water decomposition. In this study, a Ru-doped NiFe-MIL-53 (NiFeRu-MIL-53) supported on Ni foam (NF) has been designed for the nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR). The NiFeRu-MIL-53 exhibits excellent NO3RR activity with a maximum Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 100% at -0.4 V vs. RHE for NH3 and a maximum NH3 yield of 62.39 mg h-1 cm-2 at -0.7 V vs. RHE in alkaline media. This excellent performance for the NO3RR is attributed to a strong synergistic effect between Ru and reconstructed NiFe(OH)2. Additionally, the doped Ru facilitates water dissociation, leading to an appropriate supply of Hads required for N species hydrogenation during NO3RR, thereby further enhancing its performance. Furthermore, in situ Raman analysis reveals that incorporating Ru facilitates the reconstruction of MOFs and promotes the formation of hydroxide active species during the NO3RR process. This work provides a valuable strategy for designing electrocatalysts to improve the efficiency of the reduction of electrochemical nitrate to ammonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Gening Du
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Jinzhi Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Junfeng Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Mudong Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Jinhua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Yong Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Hua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Cailing Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
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8
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Yang K, Han SH, Cheng C, Guo C, Li T, Yu Y. Unveiling the Reaction Mechanism of Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia Over Cobalt-Based Electrocatalysts. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:12976-12983. [PMID: 38567925 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c13517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate to ammonia (NRA) has emerged as an alternative strategy for sewage treatment and ammonia generation. Despite excellent performances having been achieved over cobalt-based electrocatalysts, the reaction mechanism as well as veritable active species across a wide potential range are still full of controversy. Here, we adopt CoP, Co, and Co3O4 as model materials to solve these issues. CoP evolves into a core@shell structured CoP@Co before NRA. For CoP@Co and Co catalysts, a three-step relay mechanism is carried out over superficial dynamical Coδ+ active species under low overpotential, while a continuous hydrogenation mechanism from nitrate to ammonia is unveiled over superficial Co species under high overpotential. In comparison, Co3O4 species are stable and steadily catalyze nitrate hydrogenation to ammonia across a wide potential range. As a result, CoP@Co and Co exhibit much higher NRA activity than Co3O4 especially under a low overpotential. Moreover, the NRA performance of CoP@Co is higher than Co although they experience the same reaction mechanism. A series of characterizations clarify the reason for performance enhancement highlighting that CoP core donates abundant electrons to superficial active species, leading to the generation of more active hydrogen for the reduction of nitrogen-containing intermediates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiwen Yang
- Institute of Molecular Plus, School of Chemical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Shu-He Han
- Institute of Molecular Plus, School of Chemical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Chuanqi Cheng
- Institute of New Energy Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Chengying Guo
- Institute of Molecular Plus, School of Chemical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Asia Silicon Joint Research Center of Ammonia-Hydrogen New Energy, Tianjin University, Xining 810000, China
| | - Tieliang Li
- Institute of Molecular Plus, School of Chemical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Yifu Yu
- Institute of Molecular Plus, School of Chemical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Asia Silicon Joint Research Center of Ammonia-Hydrogen New Energy, Tianjin University, Xining 810000, China
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Liu Y, Zheng Y, Ren Y, Wang Y, You S, Liu M. Selective Nitrate Electroreduction to Ammonia on CNT Electrodes with Controllable Interfacial Wettability. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:7228-7236. [PMID: 38551367 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c01464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/24/2024]
Abstract
The development of electrocatalysts that can efficiently reduce nitrate (NO3-) to ammonia (NH3) has garnered increasing attention due to their potential to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental protection. Intensive efforts have focused on catalyst development, but a thorough understanding of the effect of the microenvironment around the reactive sites of the catalyst is also crucial to maximize the performance of the electrocatalysts. This study explored an electrocatalytic system that utilized quaternary ammonium surfactants with a range of alkyl chain lengths to modify an electrode made of carbon nanotubes (CNT), with the goal of regulating interfacial wettability toward NO3- reduction. Trimethyltetradecylammonium bromide with a moderate alkyl chain length created a very hydrophobic interface, which led to a high selectivity in the production of NH3 (∼87%). Detailed mechanistic investigations that used operando Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and online differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS) revealed that the construction of a hydrophobic modified CNT played a synergistic role in suppressing a side reaction involving the generation of hydrogen, which would compete with the reduction of NO3-. This electrocatalytic system led to a favorable process for the reduction of NO3- to NH3 through a direct electron transfer pathway. Our findings underscore the significance of controlling the hydrophobic surface of electrocatalysts as an effective means to enhance electrochemical performance in aqueous media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanbiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), Dalian POCT Laboratory, School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yiqing Zheng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yifan Ren
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Shijie You
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Meng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), Dalian POCT Laboratory, School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
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10
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Wang Y, Hao F, Sun M, Liu MT, Zhou J, Xiong Y, Ye C, Wang X, Liu F, Wang J, Lu P, Ma Y, Yin J, Chen HC, Zhang Q, Gu L, Chen HM, Huang B, Fan Z. Crystal Phase Engineering of Ultrathin Alloy Nanostructures for Highly Efficient Electroreduction of Nitrate to Ammonia. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2313548. [PMID: 38279631 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202313548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Electrocatalytic nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) toward ammonia synthesis is recognized as a sustainable strategy to balance the global nitrogen cycle. However, it still remains a great challenge to achieve highly efficient ammonia production due to the complex proton-coupled electron transfer process in NO3RR. Here, the controlled synthesis of RuMo alloy nanoflowers (NFs) with unconventional face-centered cubic (fcc) phase and hexagonal close-packed/fcc heterophase for highly efficient NO3RR is reported. Significantly, fcc RuMo NFs demonstrate high Faradaic efficiency of 95.2% and a large yield rate of 32.7 mg h-1 mgcat -1 toward ammonia production at 0 and -0.1 V (vs reversible hydrogen electrode), respectively. In situ characterizations and theoretical calculations have unraveled that fcc RuMo NFs possess the highest d-band center with superior electroactivity, which originates from the strong Ru─Mo interactions and the high intrinsic activity of the unconventional fcc phase. The optimal electronic structures of fcc RuMo NFs supply strong adsorption of key intermediates with suppression of the competitive hydrogen evolution, which further determines the remarkable NO3RR performance. The successful demonstration of high-performance zinc-nitrate batteries with fcc RuMo NFs suggests their substantial application potential in electrochemical energy supply systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhao Wang
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Fengkun Hao
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Mingzi Sun
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Meng-Ting Liu
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Emerging Materials and Advanced Devices, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Jingwen Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Hong Kong Branch of National Precious Metals Material Engineering Research Center (NPMM), City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yuecheng Xiong
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Hong Kong Branch of National Precious Metals Material Engineering Research Center (NPMM), City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Chenliang Ye
- Department of Power Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Baoding, Hebei, 071003, China
| | - Xixi Wang
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Fu Liu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Pengyi Lu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Hong Kong Branch of National Precious Metals Material Engineering Research Center (NPMM), City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yangbo Ma
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Jinwen Yin
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Hsiao-Chien Chen
- Center for Reliability Science and Technologies, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 33302, Taiwan
| | - Qinghua Zhang
- Institute of Physics, Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Lin Gu
- Beijing National Center for Electron Microscopy and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Hao Ming Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Emerging Materials and Advanced Devices, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Bolong Huang
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Zhanxi Fan
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Hong Kong Branch of National Precious Metals Material Engineering Research Center (NPMM), City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
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11
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Askari MJ, Kallick JD, McCrory CCL. Selective Reduction of Aqueous Nitrate to Ammonium with an Electropolymerized Chromium Molecular Catalyst. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:7439-7455. [PMID: 38465608 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c12783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Nitrate (NO3-) is a common nitrogen-containing contaminant in agricultural, industrial, and low-level nuclear wastewater that causes significant environmental damage. In this work, we report a bioinspired Cr-based molecular catalyst incorporated into a redox polymer that selectively and efficiently reduces aqueous NO3- to ammonium (NH4+), a desirable value-added fertilizer component and industrial precursor, at rates of ∼0.36 mmol NH4+ mgcat-1 h-1 with >90% Faradaic efficiency for NH4+. The NO3- reduction reaction occurs through a cascade catalysis mechanism involving the stepwise reduction of NO3- to NH4+ via observed NO2- and NH2OH intermediates. To our knowledge, this is one of the first examples of a molecular catalyst, homogeneous or heterogenized, that is reported to reduce aqueous NO3- to NH4+ with rates and Faradaic efficiencies comparable to those of state-of-the-art solid-state electrocatalysts. This work highlights a promising and previously unexplored area of electrocatalyst research using polymer-catalyst composites containing complexes with oxophilic transition metal active sites for electrochemical nitrate remediation with nutrient recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maiko J Askari
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Jeremy D Kallick
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Charles C L McCrory
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Macromolecular Science and Engineering Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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Zhong W, Hong QL, Ai X, Zhang C, Li FM, Li XF, Chen Y. RhNi Bimetallenes with Lattice-Compressed Rh Skin towards Ultrastable Acidic Nitrate Electroreduction. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2314351. [PMID: 38408278 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202314351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Harvesting recyclable ammonia (NH3 ) from acidic nitrate (NO3 - )-containing wastewater requires the utilization of corrosion-resistant electrocatalytic materials with high activity and selectivity towards acidic electrochemical nitrate reduction (NO3 ER). Herein, ultrathin RhNi bimetallenes with Rh-skin-type structure (RhNi@Rh BMLs) are fabricated towards acidic NO3 ER. The Rh-skin atoms on the surface of RhNi@Rh BMLs experience the lattice compression-induced strain effect, resulting in shortened Rh-Rh bond and downshifted d-band center. Experimental and theoretical calculation results corroborate that Rh-skin atoms can inhibit NO2 */NH2 * adsorption-induced Rh dissolution, contributing to the exceptional electrocatalytic durability of RhNi@Rh BMLs (over 400 h) towards acidic NO3 ER. RhNi@Rh BMLs also reveal an excellent catalytic performance, boasting a 98.4% NH3 Faradaic efficiency and a 13.4 mg h-1 mgcat -1 NH3 yield. Theoretical calculations reveal that compressive stress tunes the electronic structure of Rh skin atoms, which facilitates the reduction of NO* to NOH* in NO3 ER. The practicality of RhNi@Rh BMLs has also been confirmed in an alkaline-acidic hybrid zinc-nitrate battery with a 1.39 V open circuit voltage and a 10.5 mW cm-2 power density. This work offers valuable insights into the nature of electrocatalyst deactivation behavior and guides the development of high-efficiency corrosion-resistant electrocatalysts for applications in energy and environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Science of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Shaanxi Key Laboratory for Advanced Energy Devices, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, P. R. China
| | - Qing-Ling Hong
- Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Science of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Shaanxi Key Laboratory for Advanced Energy Devices, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, P. R. China
| | - Xuan Ai
- Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Science of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Shaanxi Key Laboratory for Advanced Energy Devices, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, P. R. China
| | - Chong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Science of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Shaanxi Key Laboratory for Advanced Energy Devices, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, P. R. China
| | - Fu-Min Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage (Ministry of Education), Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Xi-Fei Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Batteries Materials for Electric Vehicles of China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, P. R. China
| | - Yu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Science of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Shaanxi Key Laboratory for Advanced Energy Devices, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, P. R. China
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